Mazda seems to be bucking the engine downsizing pattern. Nestled inside its full-year monetary outcomes presentation is a quick point out of plans for a big structure with inline-six compression ignition petrol and diesel engines, earmarked Skyactiv-X and second-generation Skyactiv-D, respectively, along with the evolution of its Kodo design language and upgrades to its small structure Skyactiv powertrains.

This goes some solution to explaining the long-nosed, cab-rearwards stance of the Mazda Imaginative and prescient Coupe idea that was first unveiled on the 2017 Tokyo Motor Present, which might level to a extra upscale path for the next-generation Mazda 6 sedan. The web page additionally notes that the longitudinal configuration will take i-Activ all-wheel-drive. Up to now, the MX-5 is the one present Mazda with a north-south engine format.

The extra advanced technical growth in play will push what appears to be the subsequent Mazda 6 squarely into the European premium phase, for which Mazda’s re-adopted longitudinal driveline format has been a staple. The inline-six engine configuration, as soon as almost unique to BMW, now additionally is available in renewed choices from Jaguar Land Rover in addition to Mercedes-Benz.

Mazda may even incorporate delicate and plug-in hybrid electrification for these new engines. Mazda has additionally confirmed to Jalopnik in an announcement, saying “We’re excited to deliver these powertrains to our future automobiles as we proceed on our path to premium,” although particular particulars will “be disclosed at an acceptable time,” the Japanese automaker mentioned.

Now, on condition that the Imaginative and prescient Coupe idea is, effectively, a coupe, might this pave the best way for a equally sized premium two-door manufacturing automotive? Will it imply a resurgence of previous nameplates, or the appearance of latest ones?